Ameritas associates teamed up to support tree planting initiatives in both Lincoln, Nebraska, and Cincinnati. These events reinforced Ameritas’ focus on one of its community wellness areas: sustainability.
Earth Day means planting trees for Ameritas associates
Earlier this spring, Ameritas partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant trees in Lincoln. Volunteers gathered on Earth Day, planting 25 new trees in Ballard Park.
“What stood out to me the most was the comradery and team-player attitude everybody had while volunteering,” said Jeff Newell, senior account & client consultant. “Despite us all coming from differing workplaces and backgrounds, we all came together to do something impactful for the city of Lincoln.”
A few days later, Ameritas associates supported the larger Arbor Day LNK celebration, distributing 150 free trees to residents. The event featured group fitness classes, live music and educational activities, bringing the community together to celebrate Arbor Day and the importance of green spaces in Lincoln.
“Ameritas choosing to be advocates for tree planting events shows the company cares about the longevity of our local community rather than focusing solely on what’s best for business,” said Newell. “I’m glad Ameritas allows associates to volunteer for something that will really impact the Earth, and all living organisms, in a positive way.”
Helping the Ohio River Foundation
In October, associates gathered once again, this time at Kingswood Park in Cincinnati. Volunteers partnered with the Ohio River Foundation to plant 32 native trees and install deer protection for their survival.
Kingswood Park was previously a closed golf course, but the community united to reclaim the land and transform it into a park. Unfortunately, invasive weeds and plants had overrun the space.
“We were literally in the weeds; some of us even got poison ivy,” said Kristi Kidwell, lead software developer. “But the work will eventually get rid of the invasive species, and these new items will make the park a beautiful place for the community to enjoy.”
This event was part of a larger effort to restore native plant life along the Ohio River and revitalize local parks. The Ohio River Foundation educated volunteers about the native species in the region.
“I enjoyed hearing about the park restoration process,” said Nicole Taulbee, lead data scientist-visualizer. “There is quite a bit of effort that goes into the selection of trees and shrubs as well as the upkeep of the parks.”
Across both events, associates from different departments came together for a common goal: positively impact the environment and create a healthier future.
The trees planted in Lincoln and Cincinnati will create greener spaces that benefit both the environment and the communities around them. As these trees grow, so too does Ameritas’ commitment to sustainability.
